Mitchells Plain comedian Lunga Tshuka grew up in Colorado Park as the only Xhosa boy in his coloured community, and now the comic wants to share his story in a one-man production called These are my Stories.
“I want to shed light on cultural dynamics and differences. In the end, we are all able to be happy together, no matter which cultural influences one has,” he says.
Lunga, 31, moved to the Plain when he was three years old and says he lost his ability to speak Xhosa.
“Growing up and living in Colorado Park definitely had a huge impact on the type of person I am today. It was very interesting and different.
“I moved there with my family when I was very young, so I started my schooling this side and had only coloured friends, as a result I stopped speaking my mother tongue and only spoke English and Afrikaans.”
He’s been on the comedy scene for seven years, but says he finally feels ready.
“It took time for me to perfect my style and understand the craft better,” he says.
“I worked on my material to a point where I could focus on other aspects of performance. So after doing that I think the world is ready to meet me now.”
He says the audience will get a more intimate glimpse of his life growing up in the Plain and trying to adapt to his surroundings.
“Many have heard me speak about being a black boy in a coloured community, but this time I’ll share more in-depth facts and funny moments that are highlighted in my life.”
The young man has also been working hard to get his name out there, building his brand.
Fans can expect lekker impersonations and sound effects accompanying jokes.
“I’m not just a comedian, I’m a brand that’s able to do comedy, feel and show my personality with any collaborations I am involved in.”
Catch him at Artscape Theatre on 5 and 6 July. Tickets available at Computicket for R60.